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In a World Driven By AI, Prepare Your Child to Shape their Future
Join the 5-Day Residential MIT RAISE FutureBuilders Programme at Rugby School Japan - an intensive, university-style experience in ethical AI, app design, and innovation from Sunday, 28th June to Friday, 3rd July
- Build confidence and practical experience in problem-solving and AI innovation
- Gain exposure to university-style learning - setting your child up for the next stage of their academic career
- Develop skills that will help your child to stand out in higher education and their future career
- Understand how to make a positive impact through responsible technology development
Bringing the best of MIT to the RSJ community
In just one week - during this exclusive residential programme - your child will develop future-ready skills guided by MIT instructors and mentors. Pupils will expand their AI knowledge while brainstorming and developing their own app to solve real-world problems.
When: Sunday, 28th June - Friday, 3rd July 2026
Where: The MIT RAISE FutureBuilders Summer Programme will be hosted on campus at Rugby School Japan.
Day and Residential Options Available: Campers can join as day participants or residential attendees. Residential participants will benefit from 5 nights’ accommodation in our purpose-built boarding houses.
They will also receive dedicated care from RSJ’s highly qualified pastoral staff, who will run the boarding houses throughout the 5-day programme.
Nurturing the Next Generation of AI Innovators
Nurturing the Next Generation of AI Innovators
Artificial Intelligence is rapidly changing how we live, work, and learn. While AI transforms industries and careers, many pupils experience it only as passive users, not active creators. That is why, in collaboration with MIT RAISE and Pharos Education, we aim to close this gap by nurturing the next generation of AI innovators, not just consumers.
Studies show that early, active engagement with AI helps students develop initiative, creativity, and practical problem-solving skills. These qualities are increasingly valued by universities and employers alongside academic excellence.
Building these skills now prepares students to adapt confidently to rapid technological changes and lays the foundation for them to thrive in an ever-changing, technology-driven world.
The MIT RAISE FutureBuilders programme offers interactive sessions and opportunities for creativity and exploration. Following a curriculum developed by MIT researchers and delivered by MIT instructors and student mentors, this project-focused, hands-on programme ensures campers actively apply what they learn. Through this, your child can develop a deeper understanding of responsible AI and gain confidence in using technology to create positive change.
Artificial Intelligence is rapidly changing how we live, work, and learn. While AI transforms industries and careers, many pupils experience it only as passive users, not active creators. That is why, in collaboration with MIT RAISE and Pharos Education, we aim to close this gap by nurturing the next generation of AI innovators, not just consumers.
Studies show that early, active engagement with AI helps students develop initiative, creativity, and practical problem-solving skills. These qualities are increasingly valued by universities and employers alongside academic excellence.
Building these skills now prepares students to adapt confidently to rapid technological changes and lays the foundation for them to thrive in an ever-changing, technology-driven world.
The MIT RAISE FutureBuilders programme offers interactive sessions and opportunities for creativity and exploration. Following a curriculum developed by MIT researchers and delivered by MIT instructors and student mentors, this project-focused, hands-on programme ensures campers actively apply what they learn. Through this, your child can develop a deeper understanding of responsible AI and gain confidence in using technology to create positive change.
Who is the MIT RAISE
FutureBuilders Camp for?
- Ambitious pupils aged 14–17 who are eager to take on an exciting academic challenge.
- Those ready to explore and think critically about the rapidly evolving world of technology and AI.
- Pupils who are motivated to tackle real global challenges by applying their skills to designing and building AI-driven solutions.
- Students interested in experiencing university-style teaching and independent learning.
Who is the MIT RAISE
FutureBuilders Camp for?
- Ambitious pupils aged 14–17 who are eager to take on an exciting academic challenge.
- Those ready to explore and think critically about the rapidly evolving world of technology and AI.
- Pupils who are motivated to tackle real global challenges by applying their skills to designing and building AI-driven solutions.
- Students interested in experiencing university-style teaching and independent learning.
What to expect at MIT RAISE FutureBuilders Camp
Across five intensive days, participants will gain advanced AI, app design, and data science skills, guided by MIT instructors and current MIT students.
The MIT FutureBuilders Programme will help young creators harness the power of AI to tackle real global challenges - by identifying key issues, designing bold solutions, and applying technology responsibly for social good while strengthening their ethical judgment and creativity.
.
Thinking Critically
About AI
Pupils begin by developing computational thinking skills and exploring how AI systems work, both technically and ethically.
They will examine:
- How AI and machine learning function
- The opportunities and risks of emerging technologies
- The societal impact of AI across industries
Students will also learn to question technology thoughtfully rather than consume it passively.
Design & Build a Real AI Solution
With strong foundations in place, pupils move beyond theory and into purposeful creation. Working in collaborative teams, they will apply their knowledge to a real global challenge - transforming abstract concepts into meaningful innovation.
They will:
- Identify and define a pressing real-world problem
- Design thoughtful, AI-driven solutions grounded in research and ethical considerations
- Build a fully functioning mobile app using MIT's App Inventor platform
This is where confidence accelerates and where pupils experience the rare and powerful shift from learning about technology to actively shaping it.
Experience University-Style Learning
Throughout the programme, pupils engage in a university-style academic environment through:
- Rigorous yet interactive sessions
- Direct mentorship from MIT instructors and MIT student mentors
- Intellectual challenge balanced with collaborative exploration
Participants will also develop independence, curiosity, and academic confidence as they engage with advanced academic ideas.
Present with Confidence
The programme culminates in a capstone presentation, where teams will pitch their AI-driven app to peers and mentors.
Students will strengthen:
- Public speaking skills
- Persuasive communication
- The ability to articulate complex ideas clearly
Campers will leave not only with technical knowledge but with the confidence to lead conversations about the future of technology.
By the End of the Week, Pupils Will:
- Confidently explain how AI and machine learning systems work
- Critically evaluate the ethical and societal impact of emerging technologies
- Design and build a meaningful AI-powered application from scratch
At the Heart of RSJ: Boarding That Builds Independence and Belonging
During the MIT FutureBuilders Programme, campers can choose to stay in RSJ’s welcoming boarding houses.
Many RSJ pupils describe their boarding house as a “home away from home,” thanks to its warm, close-knit, and supportive community. Dedicated pastoral staff are available 24 hours a day, ensuring every child feels safe, supported, and well cared for.
Because the MIT FutureBuilders Programme is academically intensive, the relaxed and nurturing boarding environment provides essential balance, offering time to rest, recharge, and build friendships with fellow campers.
Friendships form quickly and naturally within the community-focused houses, while children take supported steps toward greater independence.
To strengthen real human connection, we limit device time. RSJ staff lead daily communal activities such as baking, table-tennis tournaments, games nights, and craft sessions, bringing pupils together and fostering confidence, belonging, and shared experiences.
Throughout the programme, pastoral staff provide round-the-clock care and guidance. The evening activity programme helps build lasting friendships and ensures every child feels understood, included, and encouraged.
Learn from MIT Instructors and Mentors
The curriculum is designed by MIT, delivered by MIT instructors, and campers are guided and supported by current MIT students.
Meet the previous MIT Instructors:
Director, MIT Open Learning
Lecturer MIT
Head Coach MIT Bootcamps
Director, MIT Open Learning
Lecturer MIT
Head Coach MIT Bootcamps
Instructor MIT App Inventor
AI Literacy Lead MIT RAISE
Meet the past MIT Student Mentors:
MIT Mentors, current MIT students, will act as supportive peers to guide RSJ Campers in developing university-level thinking. They will also share valuable experience from Higher Education, inspiring pupils for the next stage of their academic journey.
Belen Saldias, PhD - Constructive Communication at MIT Media Lab
Kristoff Misquitta, PhD Aerospace Engineering
Ben Lammers, Engineering and Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
Hannah Chung, Computer Science, Economics and Data Science
Kenneth Chap, Master of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
Rudiba Laiba, Master of Engineering in Computer Science and Molecular Biology
Four stages of the MIT RAISE FutureBuilders learning journey:
The MIT RAISE FutureBuilders has been thoughtfully designed across a 4-step learning journey - intended to lay solid foundations for knowledge acquisition, application, and retention.
1. Prepare
Before the in-person intensive 5 days begin, pupils complete a series of flexible, self-paced online modules. These pre-learning sessions focus on the fundamentals of MIT’s App Inventor, so pupils:
- Arrive with real skills, not just curiosity
- Hit the ground running with the MIT Future Builders Course
- Gain confidence early, reducing first-day nerves
The pre-learning takes about five hours in total and can be completed at each pupil’s own pace, making it easy to fit around regular school commitments.
In addition, we will host a Pre-Programme Call with the teaching team and participants - quickly establishing trust and a supportive relationship.
To create a sense of familiarity from the first day, families and pupils are invited to meet the instructors and mentors online in advance. This virtual introduction means that by the time pupils step onto the RSJ campus, they already:
- Recognise friendly faces and feel supported and ready to learn
- Know who to turn to for help and guidance
- Feel part of the community before the camp even starts
After arriving at the RSJ Campus:
2. Learn
From day one, pupils will dive into interactive, hands-on lessons that build their confidence in the essential skills and knowledge needed for a technological world. Guided by expert instructors, they will develop active and critical thinking habits that:
- Prepare them for future academic success, especially in STEM subjects
- Give them a genuine head start in understanding AI and machine learning
- Stretch them beyond the standard school curriculum, so they stand out in a competitive, tech-driven university and employment market
3. Innovate
During the third stage of the programme, pupils will work together to put their new understanding into practice, using problem-solving and creativity to build an app that addresses real social issues. This experience nurtures leadership and collaboration, while showing how AI and machine learning can be used in meaningful, positive ways.
4. Pitch
The week concludes with a celebration of your child’s growth, creativity, and resilience as each team presents their final product. This is your chance to see your child step up, speak with confidence, and take pride in what they have achieved.
By presenting to an audience, pupils strengthen public speaking and communication skills, learning to think on their feet and share their ideas clearly. This confidence lasts well beyond the classroom.
Why Join the MIT RAISE FutureBuilders Programme?
MIT RAISE FutureBuilders Camp embraces the power of AI to expand each pupil’s potential in a competitive higher education and career landscape.
Join us for five intensive days that shape years of passion, confidence, and opportunity:
- Purposeful Innovation: Pupils embark on a journey of challenge-driven problem-solving, taking the lead in developing innovative mobile apps and AI-driven solutions to global issues, discovering how passion and purpose can be ignited through AI.
- Global Network: The boarding facilities enable pupils from diverse cultures to connect at MIT Future Builders, including opportunities to engage with mentors and current MIT students.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: Tackling important issues requires strong collaboration. Through problem-solving, pupils develop communication, leadership, and teamwork skills essential for real-world success.
- Certification: MIT will issue a certificate of completion to all qualified participants
What to expect at MIT RAISE FutureBuilders Camp
Across five intensive days, participants will gain advanced AI, app design, and data science skills, guided by MIT instructors and current MIT students.
The MIT FutureBuilders Programme will help young creators harness the power of AI to tackle real global challenges - by identifying key issues, designing bold solutions, and applying technology responsibly for social good while strengthening their ethical judgment and creativity.
.
Thinking Critically
About AI
Pupils begin by developing computational thinking skills and exploring how AI systems work, both technically and ethically.
They will examine:
- How AI and machine learning function
- The opportunities and risks of emerging technologies
- The societal impact of AI across industries
Students will also learn to question technology thoughtfully rather than consume it passively.
Design & Build a Real AI Solution
With strong foundations in place, pupils move beyond theory and into purposeful creation. Working in collaborative teams, they will apply their knowledge to a real global challenge - transforming abstract concepts into meaningful innovation.
They will:
- Identify and define a pressing real-world problem
- Design thoughtful, AI-driven solutions grounded in research and ethical considerations
- Build a fully functioning mobile app using MIT's App Inventor platform
This is where confidence accelerates and where pupils experience the rare and powerful shift from learning about technology to actively shaping it.
Experience University-Style Learning
Throughout the programme, pupils engage in a university-style academic environment through:
- Rigorous yet interactive sessions
- Direct mentorship from MIT instructors and MIT student mentors
- Intellectual challenge balanced with collaborative exploration
Participants will also develop independence, curiosity, and academic confidence as they engage with advanced academic ideas.
Present with Confidence
The programme culminates in a capstone presentation, where teams will pitch their AI-driven app to peers and mentors.
Students will strengthen:
- Public speaking skills
- Persuasive communication
- The ability to articulate complex ideas clearly
Campers will leave not only with technical knowledge but with the confidence to lead conversations about the future of technology.
By the End of the Week, Pupils Will:
- Confidently explain how AI and machine learning systems work
- Critically evaluate the ethical and societal impact of emerging technologies
- Design and build a meaningful AI-powered application from scratch
At the Heart of RSJ: Boarding That Builds Independence and Belonging
During the MIT FutureBuilders Programme, campers can choose to stay in RSJ’s welcoming boarding houses.
Many RSJ pupils describe their boarding house as a “home away from home,” thanks to its warm, close-knit, and supportive community. Dedicated pastoral staff are available 24 hours a day, ensuring every child feels safe, supported, and well cared for.
Because the MIT FutureBuilders Programme is academically intensive, the relaxed and nurturing boarding environment provides essential balance, offering time to rest, recharge, and build friendships with fellow campers.
Friendships form quickly and naturally within the community-focused houses, while children take supported steps toward greater independence.
To strengthen real human connection, we limit device time. RSJ staff lead daily communal activities such as baking, table-tennis tournaments, games nights, and craft sessions, bringing pupils together and fostering confidence, belonging, and shared experiences.
Throughout the programme, pastoral staff provide round-the-clock care and guidance. The evening activity programme helps build lasting friendships and ensures every child feels understood, included, and encouraged.
Learn from MIT Instructors and Mentors
The curriculum is designed by MIT, delivered by MIT instructors, and campers are guided and supported by current MIT students.
Meet the previous MIT Instructors:
Director, MIT Open Learning
Lecturer MIT
Head Coach MIT Bootcamps
Instructor MIT App Inventor
AI Literacy Lead MIT RAISE
Meet the past MIT Student Mentors:
MIT Mentors, current MIT students, will act as supportive peers to guide RSJ Campers in developing university-level thinking. They will also share valuable experience from Higher Education, inspiring pupils for the next stage of their academic journey.
Belen Saldias, PhD - Constructive Communication at MIT Media Lab
Kristoff Misquitta, PhD Aerospace Engineering
Ben Lammers, Engineering and Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
Hannah Chung, Computer Science, Economics and Data Science
Kenneth Chap, Master of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
Rudiba Laiba, Master of Engineering in Computer Science and Molecular Biology
Four stages of the MIT RAISE FutureBuilders learning journey:
The MIT RAISE FutureBuilders has been thoughtfully designed across a 4-step learning journey - intended to lay solid foundations for knowledge acquisition, application, and retention.
1. Prepare
Before the in-person intensive 5 days begin, pupils complete a series of flexible, self-paced online modules. These pre-learning sessions focus on the fundamentals of MIT’s App Inventor, so pupils:
- Arrive with real skills, not just curiosity
- Hit the ground running with the MIT Future Builders Course
- Gain confidence early, reducing first-day nerves
The pre-learning takes about five hours in total and can be completed at each pupil’s own pace, making it easy to fit around regular school commitments.
In addition, we will host a Pre-Programme Call with the teaching team and participants - quickly establishing trust and a supportive relationship.
To create a sense of familiarity from the first day, families and pupils are invited to meet the instructors and mentors online in advance. This virtual introduction means that by the time pupils step onto the RSJ campus, they already:
- Recognise friendly faces and feel supported and ready to learn
- Know who to turn to for help and guidance
- Feel part of the community before the camp even starts
After arriving at the RSJ Campus:
2. Learn
From day one, pupils will dive into interactive, hands-on lessons that build their confidence in the essential skills and knowledge needed for a technological world. Guided by expert instructors, they will develop active and critical thinking habits that:
- Prepare them for future academic success, especially in STEM subjects
- Give them a genuine head start in understanding AI and machine learning
- Stretch them beyond the standard school curriculum, so they stand out in a competitive, tech-driven university and employment market
3. Innovate
During the third stage of the programme, pupils will work together to put their new understanding into practice, using problem-solving and creativity to build an app that addresses real social issues. This experience nurtures leadership and collaboration, while showing how AI and machine learning can be used in meaningful, positive ways.
4. Pitch
The week concludes with a celebration of your child’s growth, creativity, and resilience as each team presents their final product. This is your chance to see your child step up, speak with confidence, and take pride in what they have achieved.
By presenting to an audience, pupils strengthen public speaking and communication skills, learning to think on their feet and share their ideas clearly. This confidence lasts well beyond the classroom.
Why Join the MIT RAISE FutureBuilders Programme?
MIT RAISE FutureBuilders Camp embraces the power of AI to expand each pupil’s potential in a competitive higher education and career landscape.
Join us for five intensive days that shape years of passion, confidence, and opportunity:
- Purposeful Innovation: Pupils embark on a journey of challenge-driven problem-solving, taking the lead in developing innovative mobile apps and AI-driven solutions to global issues, discovering how passion and purpose can be ignited through AI.
- Global Network: The boarding facilities enable pupils from diverse cultures to connect at MIT Future Builders, including opportunities to engage with mentors and current MIT students.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: Tackling important issues requires strong collaboration. Through problem-solving, pupils develop communication, leadership, and teamwork skills essential for real-world success.
- Certification: MIT will issue a certificate of completion to all qualified participants
Example Day at the MIT RAISE FutureBuilders Camp:
Each day is designed to balance technical skill-building, creative thinking, and collaborative innovation, combining academic challenge with hands-on application.
9:00 am
First session - Build: Mobile App Translation tutorial
From the start, pupils are presented with hands-on challenges, such as building a mobile translation app to explore how AI processes language and solves communication challenges.
10:30 am
Break
Campers can connect with peers before taking on their next challenge.
11:00 am
Second Session - Think: Understanding Your Customer
Technology is powerful only when it solves the right problem. In this interactive session, pupils explore user-centred design. They learn to identify real needs, define meaningful problems, and evaluate who their app is for. This session strengthens critical thinking and strategic problem-solving: skills that distinguish great innovators from good coders.
12:30 pm - Lunch
1:30 pm - Third Session - Create: Mobile Game App tutorial
In the afternoon, creativity takes centre stage. Pupils design and build their own interactive mobile game, reinforcing key programming concepts through hands-on experimentation. Learning remains rigorous and engaging.
3:00 pm - Break
3:30 pm - Fourth Session - Innovate: Design Jam:
Pupils apply skills developed earlier in the day through collaborative problem-solving, working in teams to generate ideas and refine purposeful solutions. By combining innovation with responsibility, they articulate well-reasoned responses with clarity and confidence, simulating the excitement of real-world tech innovation.
5:00 pm - Evening Activity
The RSJ Boarding Programme
Alongside the MIT RAISE FutureBuilders curriculum, residential campers will also experience the culture of boarding life at RSJ:
- A buffet-style breakfast each morning, setting the tone for an energised day
- Shared evening dinners in the RSJ dining hall, building friendship and community
- Round-the-clock care from dedicated pastoral staff, ensuring every camper feels safe and supported
- A relaxed and engaging evening activity programme that balances academic intensity with connection and fun
- A warm, close-knit boarding environment where independence and confidence grow naturally
Not only will camp attendees benefit from expert tuition and pastoral care, they can also take advantage of Rugby School Japan’s state-of-the-art facilities at our brand new Kashiwanoha Campus, which is located just 30 minutes from Central Tokyo.
This is a true home away from home where participants can enjoy:
- Comfortable boarding houses
- Fully-equipped gym
- Air-conditioned indoor sports hall
- Dining hall and cafeteria
- Rugby and football field
- Tennis courts
- Indoor swimming pool
Join the MIT RAISE FutureBuilders Camp at Rugby School Japan 2026
Sunday, 28th June to Friday, 3rd July
- A 5-day programme led by world-class MIT instructors and student mentors, ensuring academic excellence and authentic university-style learning.
- Hands-on experience in AI, app design, and responsible technology - helping pupils develop critical, future-ready skills.
- Unique opportunity to tackle real-world challenges and build a working AI-powered app from scratch.
- Boost confidence, independence, and leadership through project-based teamwork and capstone presentations.
- Build a global peer network and lasting friendships in a collaborative, multicultural environment.
- Receive a certification from MIT on successful completion, standing out in university and career applications.
- Supportive, nurturing boarding experience led by dedicated pastoral staff, fostering well-being and belonging.
- Pre-programme preparation ensures every pupil arrives confident, included, and ready to thrive.
Interested in Joining MIT RAISE FutureBuilders Camp at Rugby School Japan?
If you would like your child to join us for MIT FutureBuilders Camp at Rugby School Japan, please begin your application by clicking the button below and answering the questions when prompted.
We will promptly confirm your application by email, and a member of the team will contact you shortly after to confirm your child's participation in the programme. Please note that places are strictly limited, and cannot be guaranteed until we have received full payment for your child’s place.
Registrations for the camp will close on 8th June 2026.
Please note that a minimum number of participants is required for this programme to proceed. If minimum numbers are not met, the programme may be cancelled and fees refunded to families.
Frequently Asked Questions
A1. No prior coding or AI experience is required.
The programme is designed for motivated pupils aged 14–17 who are curious, ambitious, and ready for academic challenge.
Before arrival, all participants complete structured pre-learning modules using MIT App Inventor, ensuring everyone arrives with foundational knowledge and confidence.
Students with prior experience will still be stretched through:
● Advanced problem-solving challenges
● Ethical AI debates
● Leadership roles within project teams
A2. Due to limited boarding facilities, we ask parents/guardians or chaperones to stay at nearby hotels near the RSJ campus. Information about nearby hotels can be provided on request, and the RSJ summer camp team can assist with reservation if needed. Please feel free to reach out to us for assistance.
A3. The admissions team can coordinate dates and times for taking our standard entrance exam. If you are considering taking this exam, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.
A4 No. The programme fee does not include the transportation cost from / to the airport. The RSJ summer camp team can assist with the arrangements if needed.
A5. Chinese participants would typically apply for a short-term visitor visa for their stay in japan. RSJ is happy to assist this by writing an invitation letter.
A6. Residential pupils stay in the purpose-built boarding houses at Rugby School Japan.
They receive:
● 5 nights of accommodation
● 24-hour pastoral supervision
● Buffet breakfasts and shared evening meals
● Structured evening activities
● Device-limited community time
Boarding provides a safe, supportive environment that builds independence and belonging.
A7. While there is no formal language proficiency level, all communication at the programme will be in English. For this reason we ask that all participants have a strong grasp of English so that they can confidently understand instructions and request support as needed.
A8. Unfortunately, once a place is confirmed at our programme, we are unable to offer refunds.